Bengaluru, July 22: The state president of Namma Karnataka Sena, Basavaraj Padukote, has been arrested in connection with an alleged assault on government officials during an anti-encroachment campaign under the ‘Safe Footpath Campaign’ in Shivajinagar, Bengaluru.
According to Bengaluru police, Padukote is the main accused who allegedly led the attack on officials engaged in removing illegal encroachments. Police officials reported that Padukote has a criminal background and fled the scene after turning off his mobile phone.
With Padukote’s arrest, the total number of individuals apprehended in this case has risen to 11. Earlier, police had detained ten accused, including Padukote’s son, Raghu. A case has been registered at the Commercial Street police station under various sections of the law.
Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda praised the swift action taken by the city police. In a post on X, he stated, “The main accused, Basavaraj Padukote, was arrested within 10 hours of the attack on GBA officials in Shivajinagar. He had switched off his phone and hidden, but the police formed multiple teams, tracked him down, and arrested him while he was attempting to flee. I sincerely thank the Bengaluru City Police for their prompt and decisive action.”
Initial investigations suggest that Padukote expanded his influence in the area through Kannada organizations and presented himself as a social worker. Police suspect that he organized Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations under the banner of these organizations and allegedly extorted money from street vendors in Shivajinagar. Investigators believe that he used this money to strengthen his local network and build a larger public image.
Padukote was also known for taking photos with celebrities and portraying himself as a significant public figure. Authorities are now investigating the extent of his alleged activities and potential connections to other crimes. Based on the investigation’s findings, further arrests or charges may be made.
On Tuesday, municipal employees working to clear encroachments from footpaths in Shivajinagar were reportedly attacked with pepper spray and helmets. This incident caused tension in the communally sensitive area, necessitating the deployment of a heavy police force.
Reacting to the incident, Minister Krishna Byre Gowda condemned the alleged attack on municipal employees, labeling the attackers as “goons” and asserting that everyone involved would be arrested.
The incident occurred near the Shivajinagar bus terminal while the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) was conducting its anti-encroachment drive. Officials allege that a group of people obstructed the campaign, assaulted municipal employees, and used pepper spray against those involved in the operation.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 8 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Udaipur Kiran & Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
